Mingle with writers, artists, activists and community members at the three-day Pioneer Valley Zine Fest in support of radical independent publishing. The festival includes hands-on workshops and informational talks on the zine, a noncommercial form of publication that promotes the creativity and independence of the author. Zines are written in a variety of formats, but always strive to make information available to the general public, and give anyone the opportunity to publicly express facets of their lives and identities that they might usually feel compelled to minimize or conceal.
Talks during the festival raise topics such as storytelling as a healing process, enhancing clearer communication, and navigating content etiquette in personal writing. Interactive activities include a basic tutorial on letterpress printing and the compilation of a collaborative zine. All levels of experience are welcome and newcomers’ interest is encouraged. A record fair and benefit show at the Flywheel Arts Collective and a film screening at Food For Thought Books will be held in conjunction.
April 26, 10 a.m. through April 29, 6 p.m., Food For Thought Books Collective, 106 North Pleasant St., Amherst, (413) 253-5432, contact zines@foodforthoughtbooks.com for more info.
